Summary of "Installed Newport NK300 Motor On My Old Town Autopilot 120 Fishing Kayak!"
Newport NK300 Electric Trolling Motor Installation on Old Town Autopilot 120 Kayak
In this video, Connor, a fishing enthusiast, shares his experience installing the Newport NK300 electric trolling motor on his Old Town Autopilot 120 fishing kayak. After being unable to fish for a month due to illness, he teamed up with his friend Russell from Thumper Fishing to complete the installation.
Why the NK300 and This Kayak?
Connor chose to install the NK300 on his existing kayak because:
- He already owned the necessary Minn Kota trolling motor.
- He had a 38-volt Power Quinn battery, which offers Bluetooth monitoring and a five-year warranty.
- He highly recommends this battery for its affordability and advanced technology.
Although Connor considered upgrading to a larger fishing platform like the Crescent Crescraft, he lacked on-water reviews for kayak-style use (as opposed to skiff use). Therefore, he decided to test the NK300 on his current kayak first.
Installation Overview
Connor demonstrates how he mounted the motor close to the kayak’s shaft for minimal draft, allowing better maneuverability in shallow water and narrow channels. The installation was straightforward, aided by Russell’s prior experience with a similar motor setup.
Key points of the installation process include:
- Securing the motor with the provided four-bolt pattern.
- Using Loctite for extra hold.
- Properly aligning the propeller.
- Plug-and-play cable connections.
- Adding custom 3D-printed mounts for the controller and kill switch, which Connor plans to attach to his life jacket for safety.
- Choosing not to install the reverse function on the NK300 since his kayak’s motor already has it.
Connor also explains how to deploy and remove the motor easily using pins and carabiners, emphasizing the importance of carrying spare parts included in the kit. He advises transporting the motor separately from the kayak to avoid damage.
The setup leaves ample room for gear storage without interfering with the rudder or paddling.
Motivation for Upgrading
The main reasons for upgrading to the NK300 are to improve speed and efficiency on the water, especially against currents and wind. Connor’s previous Minn Kota motor struggled, sometimes moving only 2.3 mph. He wants to:
- Reduce travel time to fishing spots.
- Avoid exhausting paddling in shallow or flat areas where the old motor’s propeller would hit the bottom.
The NK300’s adjustable mounting allows for a very low draft, enabling better access to shallow waters.
Future Testing and Considerations
Connor plans to test the motor extensively on the water to assess:
- Speed
- Maneuverability
- Shallow water performance
- Reliability
He notes that some users have reported error codes if the setup sequence isn’t followed correctly (battery must be plugged in last). He promises future videos with detailed on-water reviews.
Closing Remarks
Connor thanks Russell for his help with the installation and reminds viewers about the Power Quinn battery discount code:
Discount Code:
fish on— for 10% off
He encourages viewers to stay tuned for upcoming content showcasing the NK300’s capabilities.
Presenter: Connor (your fisherman) Additional source: Russell from Thumper Fishing (installation assistance)
Category
Sport
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